The countdown to the festive season has begun and Cardiff called on the help of a sci-fi celebrity to get into the spirit.

Doctor Who’sMatt Smith, along with co-stars Arthur Darvill and Karen Gillan, threw the switch on the city's Christmas lights this week.

The popular series is shot in and around the Welsh capital giving local fans the opportunity to see their heroes in action.

Proud of his 'adopted' land, Matt said: "It's a real honour to be asked to switch on Cardiff's Christmas lights because the city has become like a second home to not only me, but the rest of the Doctor Who team."